Body

 According to the great philosopher and physician, Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon (Maimonides), to be physically healthy is “among the ways of God. Because one cannot understand or have any knowledge of the Creator if he is ill. Therefore, he must avoid that which harms the body, and accustom himself to that which is healthful and helps the body become stronger.”  

In other words, taking care of our physical body allows our soul to reside in a healthy vessel, which helps us to achieve our life’s purpose.

However, taking care of your body is not an end in itself. The end goal of living is to continuously develop a deeper closeness with God. We do this with both our body and our soul. The body is a ‘servant’ of the soul and allows the soul to grow and refine itself by following the Torah’s directives.

Tending to our physical selves includes eating healthfully, exercising regularly, having good sleep habits and managing stress.*  Additionally, taking vacations, enjoying a hobby and having other special interests help to nourish and reinvigorate our bodies and souls, and are included in this “Ball.”

 * NOTE: It is prudent to consult with a physician to assess your personal physical condition before making changes to your diet or exercise.

1. Ask yourself: 

What can I do today to begin to restore or improve my physical vitality?

For example,  if you have not yet developed a regular exercise habit, start by taking a 15-minute walk around the neighborhood every other day. 

2. Exercise: start small and be realistic — or you won’t do it.

Much has been written about the benefits of fresh air and cardiovascular activity, and so, yes, this Ball is a bit obvious. If you drop it (or have not yet picked it up), you will find yourself suffering from an off-kilter feeling. 

Now you’re ready… 

Start to Juggle.

 

____________________ 

Here a few more tips to keep yourself ‘Juggling’

  1. As in all life changes, SMALL steps work best. Start something RIGHT NOW.  (“If not now, when?” asks the great sage Hillel.)

  2. Print out the MyJuggler Starter Card

  3. Fill in one small item in one category. Start today and repeat for the next 4 days. Put the card where you will see it. Fill it in tomorrow. You’re on your way.

    Re-balance every month — just recalibrate a little.  Once you’ve made progress in one area, make a little tweak in another one of the 5 areas.

  •   • Juggling the Five Balls means growing in the key areas of life.

  •   • You will begin to feel increased joy.

  •   • The Five will keep you alive!

  •   • The movement forward creates an energy of positivity.

  •   • Putting your life in order clears the way for a purpose-driven life.
 

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